Search

Published: September 2023

Kia ora, tough times affect each of us differently. It’s okay to reach out if you need to or, if you’re worried about someone else, to encourage them to reach out. We all need a bit of support from time to time. If you or someone you know is struggling, we want you to know that however you or they

Published: 11 June, 2025

extensive enough to drive improvement at the scale and pace we need,” said Karen Orsborn.  “It has been 7 years since the landmark He Ara Oranga report in 2018. Our report shows that while there are pockets of positive change, the system has got a significant way to go to achieve the outcomes

Published: 28 October, 2021

, youth, general practice, and community settings. “Access to mental health, wellbeing, and addiction services when they are needed, and giving people a diverse choice of services to suit their needs, are vitally important for the successful long-term transformation of mental health, addiction, and

Published: 5 June, 2024

difficulties getting access to higher levels of care such as specialist services when needed. “If you can’t get help in one part of the system you’ll invariably turn elsewhere. For instance, emergency responses continue to see increasing mental health related calls.” “We have got to do more to ensure

Published: 25 June, 2026

The Minister for Mental Health Hon Matt Doocey has announced changes to the composition of the Board of Te Hiringa Mahara – Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission. The current chair Hayden Wano is standing down in July. The independent crown entity’s new chairperson is Dr Barbara Disley, and Dr

Published: January 2026

In 2025 we finalised an updated organisational strategy. This covers the four years to 2029 and sets out how we will achieve our vision and mission. The 2025-2029 Statement of Intent reflects this refreshed direction. Agreement to a new strategy followed a thorough review process, consultation and

Published: 22 September, 2021

in their local communities increasing equity for priority groups - those communities that we know disproportionately experience mental distress and addiction working alongside people with lived experience of mental distress to repeal and replace the Mental Health Act - ensuring that all legislation

Published: 14 June, 2021

also chaired the Initial Commission Board and says Karen brought focus and energy to the Initial Commission’s work programme, quickly building a strong, focused team and making stuff happen. “The Board has great confidence that by maintaining leadership continuity, Karen’s understanding of the history

Published: 25 June, 2020

, it presents challenges and opportunities for the mental health and wellbeing system." "We would like to encourage the system to pause, reflect and embrace the strengths that emerged in the last few months, such as collaboration, high trust and a shared understanding of need and outcomes. Our response to COVID-19 has shown that together, we can achieve great things. Let’s not lose this,” says Mr Wano. You can read the report on our website .

Published: June 2026

gone far enough, especially for young people and Māori. This roadmap sets out where faster, more focused action is needed to build a system that better meets people’s needs. What must change There has been progress over the past seven years, including increased access to primary and community mental